In the age of social media, Instagram has emerged as one of the most popular platforms for sharing photos, videos, and personal moments. With features like Stories, direct messaging, and disappearing photos, it’s natural for users to wonder about privacy implications. One burning question people often ask is: “Does Instagram notify when you screenshot a story?” Let’s dive deep into this topic and uncover the truth about Instagram’s screenshot notifications, privacy concerns, and more. Whether you’re a regular Instagram user or a curious onlooker, here’s everything you need to know about screenshotting Stories in 2025.
Does Instagram Notify When You Screenshot a Story in 2025?
The short answer is no, Instagram does not notify users when you screenshot their Stories. Unlike Snapchat, which is known for sending notifications when someone takes a screenshot, Instagram does not apply the same rule to regular Stories. This means that if you screenshot someone’s Story—whether it’s a photo, video, or a combination of both—they won’t receive any kind of notification or alert.
However, it’s important to note that Instagram’s policy has evolved over the years. At one point in 2018, Instagram did experiment with sending notifications for Story screenshots. During this test phase, a user would see a small camera icon next to the name of anyone who had taken a screenshot of their Story. But this feature was discontinued due to backlash and privacy concerns. As of 2025, you can safely screenshot Stories without fear of being exposed.
What About Screenshots of Disappearing Photos or Videos?
While Instagram doesn’t notify users about regular Story screenshots, the rules are different when it comes to disappearing photos and videos sent via direct messages (DMs). If someone sends you a photo or video that’s set to “View Once” or “Replay,” and you take a screenshot, Instagram will notify the sender. A small icon or alert will appear in the chat thread, letting them know you’ve captured their content.
This feature is designed to protect users’ privacy, particularly for sensitive or personal content shared through DMs. It’s worth noting that this only applies to disappearing messages. If the content is a standard DM that doesn’t disappear after being viewed, you can screenshot it without triggering a notification.
What Are Disappearing Messages on Instagram?
Disappearing messages are a feature in Instagram’s direct messaging system where users can send photos or videos that automatically vanish after they’ve been viewed. When sending a disappearing message, you can choose from three options:
- View Once: The recipient can view the photo or video only once, after which it disappears.
- Allow Replay: The recipient can view the content twice before it vanishes.
- Keep in Chat: The content remains in the chat thread and can be viewed repeatedly.
Disappearing messages are commonly used for sharing temporary or private content. However, since these messages can only be viewed a limited number of times, Instagram enforces stricter privacy measures—such as screenshot notifications—to ensure the sender’s privacy.
Is There a Way to Avoid Notification in DMs?
While Instagram notifies users of screenshots for disappearing messages, some users may look for ways to bypass these alerts. For example:
- Using another device: You can use a secondary device (like a phone or tablet) to take a photo or video of the disappearing message without triggering a notification.
- Screen recording tools: Some users use screen recording apps or built-in screen recording features to capture disappearing messages discreetly. However, this may still notify the sender in certain cases.
- Airplane mode trick: By enabling airplane mode, you may be able to screenshot or record the content without alerting the sender. But this method isn’t foolproof, as Instagram may still log the activity once you reconnect to the internet.
Keep in mind that circumventing screenshot notifications can be seen as a breach of trust and may violate Instagram’s community guidelines.
Why Instagram Doesn’t Notify Story Screenshots
The primary reason Instagram doesn’t notify users about Story screenshots is to maintain a balance between user privacy and content sharing. Instagram Stories are designed to be semi-public, temporary content. Notifying users of screenshots could discourage people from engaging with Stories or sharing content openly. Additionally, Instagram’s decision aligns with its focus on being a platform for connection and creativity, rather than imposing strict privacy controls that might limit user interaction.
Public Stories vs. Private Messages
There’s a significant difference between public Stories and private messages on Instagram. Public Stories are meant to be viewed by a larger audience, such as followers or even the general public if your account is set to public. In contrast, private messages (including disappearing messages) are shared between individuals or small groups and are generally more personal in nature. Because of this distinction, Instagram enforces stricter privacy measures for private messages, such as screenshot notifications for disappearing content, while leaving public Stories open to interaction.
User Privacy vs. Social Sharing
Instagram walks a fine line between respecting user privacy and encouraging social sharing. While features like disappearing messages and screenshot notifications for DMs are meant to protect privacy, the platform also wants to ensure that users feel comfortable sharing their Stories without excessive restrictions. By not notifying users of Story screenshots, Instagram promotes a sense of openness and creativity, allowing users to engage with content freely.
That said, it’s still important to be mindful of others’ privacy and avoid misusing their content. Just because Instagram doesn’t notify Story screenshots doesn’t mean it’s ethical to share or repost someone’s content without their permission.
Are There Any Tools That Notify You of Screenshots?
As of now, there are no official tools or third-party apps that notify Instagram users about Story screenshots. Any app or service claiming to offer such functionality should be approached with caution, as it may violate Instagram’s terms of service or compromise your account’s security.
Instagram itself has not implemented this feature beyond the context of disappearing messages in DMs. If you’re concerned about your Stories being screenshotted, consider setting your account to private or using Instagram’s Close Friends feature to share content with a select audience.
Can You Screenshot Instagram Stories Anonymously?
Yes, you can screenshot Instagram Stories anonymously because the platform does not send notifications for regular Story screenshots. If you want to ensure complete anonymity, you can use methods like enabling airplane mode or accessing Instagram through a web browser and taking a screenshot. However, these extra steps are generally unnecessary for regular Stories, as Instagram doesn’t alert the content creator about screenshots.
Does Instagram Plan to Add Screenshot Alerts for Stories?
As of 2025, Instagram has not announced any plans to reintroduce screenshot alerts for Stories. While the platform briefly tested this feature in 2018, the negative feedback and privacy concerns led to its removal. Instagram is unlikely to revisit this idea in the near future, given its emphasis on user engagement and creative sharing.
Thoughts on Instagram Story Screenshots
Screenshots are an integral part of how people interact with content on Instagram. Whether it’s saving a funny meme, capturing an inspiring quote, or remembering a travel destination, screenshots allow users to engage with Stories in meaningful ways. While it’s always good to be mindful of the content you screenshot, the current lack of notification ensures that users can freely interact with Stories without feeling restricted.
Why Instagram Doesn’t Notify Story Screenshots
Instagram’s decision not to notify users of Story screenshots reflects its focus on fostering a creative and interactive platform. By allowing users to screenshot Stories without alerts, Instagram encourages sharing, engagement, and connection. This approach aligns with the platform’s goal of being a space where users feel free to express themselves and share their moments with others.
The Bottom Line
To sum up, Instagram does not notify users when you screenshot a Story in 2025. However, it does send notifications for screenshots of disappearing messages in direct messages. By understanding the platform’s policies and respecting others’ privacy, you can enjoy using Instagram responsibly while engaging with content to the fullest. Whether you’re sharing Stories or capturing moments, Instagram remains a dynamic platform for creativity, connection, and community. Always remember to use it ethically and thoughtfully!
